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Last Lionel Berkshire made in the U.S.A.

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  • Member since
    October 2013
  • 1 posts
Posted by Baby Boomer Bob on Sunday, August 31, 2014 11:34 AM

I concur.  Buying for investment today is buying into a shrinking market since not nearly as many Gen X'ers and Millenials are interested in toy trains as those of us in the Baby Boom generation (and older).  Escalating price requires demand and limited supply.  While the limited supply remains, the demand does not.  Buy to enjoy the hobby but please do not think you'll get rich.  Even old timers like me won't pay an inflated price for a piece.  I'm not going to be around long enough to realize an ROI!Laugh

  • Member since
    July 2014
  • 2 posts
Posted by l.maynard on Sunday, August 31, 2014 10:42 AM

Thanks CWBURFLE. What you say makes a lot of sense. I thought being the last train made in the U.S. would make it more in demand. I guess not.

Thanks,

l.maynard

  • Member since
    July 2003
  • 1,786 posts
Posted by cwburfle on Saturday, August 30, 2014 5:00 PM

If your engine has not increased in value, its because there aren't enough people interested in purchasing it to drive the price up.
From what I see, the majority of Lionel trains made during the modern era sell for considerably less than what was their original purchase price when newly released.
Some items were highly desirable when released, and purchase prices went well above what was listed in the catalog. These items typically sell for considerably less as well.

Most collectors who are looking for modern era pieces want their trains to be in new condition, unrun, with all the paperwork, packing, and boxes in crisp, clean condition.

Most would advise against purchasing toy trains as an investment, myself included.

 

  • Member since
    July 2014
  • 2 posts
Last Lionel Berkshire made in the U.S.A.
Posted by l.maynard on Saturday, August 30, 2014 2:31 PM

Greetings. I purchased this locomotive in 2001. After 13 years it has not increased in value. Does anyone have an idea why?

Thanks,

l.maynard

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